The NFL preseason is built for surprises, with overlooked draft picks often forcing their way into the spotlight. For the Miami Dolphins, rookie defensive tackle Jordan Phillips and running back Ollie Gordon II have done just that, emerging as late-round steals already drawing national recognition.
Both Phillips, a fifth-rounder from Maryland, and Gordon, a sixth-rounder out of Oklahoma State, were singled out by NFL.com analyst Bucky Brooks on his list of non–first-round rookies poised to make an impact in 2025. Strong showings in training camp and preseason action have pushed the pair onto the national radar as potential early contributors.
“Though his production does not pop on the stat sheet, the 6-3, 305-pounder looks like the destructive force the Dolphins need on the interior to control the trenches,” Brooks wrote of Phillips. “From his rugged running style between the tackles to his soft hands on the perimeter, the Oklahoma State product looks like the dynamic weapon who finished seventh in the 2023 Heisman Trophy race,” he added of Gordon.
That evaluation mirrors what Miami has seen in August. Phillips’ power and leverage have shown up in short yardage and goal-line settings, and his background as a wrestler translates to quick hands and balance at the point of attack. He profiles as an early rotational piece who can help keep the interior fresh.
Brooks also spotlighted Ollie Gordon’s all-around potential after a solid preseason.
“From his rugged running style between the tackles to his soft hands on the perimeter, the Oklahoma State product looks like the dynamic weapon who finished seventh in the 2023 Heisman Trophy race,” he wrote of Gordon.
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Gordon reinforced that evaluation with his preseason work, showing patience at the line of scrimmage and the burst to finish runs through contact. Even in limited action, he displayed the same physical style and versatility that made him stand out at Oklahoma State, giving Miami confidence he can contribute when called upon.
That momentum also comes at a time when Miami’s backfield is suddenly short on healthy options, creating a clearer path to early carries. With Jaylen Wright sidelined to start the year and De’Von Achane slowed by a calf issue, opportunity is knocking for Gordon to carve out a role from Week 1.
With the Dolphins eyeing a playoff run even as early injuries test their depth, contributions from late-round picks take on added importance. Phillips has already shown he can anchor against the run, while Gordon has flashed the versatility to handle more responsibility if called upon.
Miami opens the regular season on Sept. 7 with a road matchup against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium, giving both rookies an early chance to prove their preseason momentum can carry into games that matter.
